The decision to establish ISRO's second rocket launchport in Kulasekarapattinam is a calculated move driven by multiple strategic considerations. This coastal town in Tamil Nadu offers significant advantages for space missions, particularly those involving the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).
Kulasekarapattinam's proximity to the equator facilitates direct southward launch paths, which are crucial for deploying satellites into polar and sun-synchronous orbits. This location minimizes the distance and fuel required for launches, enhancing payload capacity and mission efficiency.
The direct southward trajectory from Kulasekarapattinam is particularly beneficial as it allows launches to proceed over the Indian Ocean without the need for fuel-intensive course corrections. In contrast, launches from India’s first launch site, SDSC SHAR in Sriharikota, must navigate around Sri Lanka, which requires additional fuel. By avoiding this detour, ISRO can save considerable amounts of fuel, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of space missions.
The location near the equator provides a natural 'slingshot' effect due to the Earth's faster rotational speed at this latitude. This rotational boost increases the launch vehicle’s velocity, allowing rockets to carry more payload for the same fuel or use less fuel for the same payload. Such advantages are critical for optimizing mission costs and enhancing payload capacity, making launches more efficient and cost-effective.
A key benefit of launching from Kulasekarapattinam is the navigational ease it offers. The direct path avoids geographical obstacles like Sri Lanka, which is a necessary consideration for launches from SDSC SHAR. This straightforward trajectory results in substantial fuel savings and contributes to more economical satellite launches.
The strategic advantages of Kulasekarapattinam align seamlessly with ISRO's mission to advance India’s space capabilities. By optimizing fuel consumption, increasing payload capacity, and ensuring navigational ease, this location supports ISRO’s goals of providing reliable and cost-effective launch services. This strategic choice positions India to meet the growing demand for satellite launches on a global scale, reinforcing its standing as a major player in the space industry.
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